Methane

/ˈmɛθeɪn/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A colorless, odorless gas that is the simplest alkane, consisting of one carbon atom bonded to four hydrogen atoms (CH4), commonly produced by the decomposition of organic matter.

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that contributes significantly to climate change.

A major component of natural gas, used as a fuel source and in the production of various chemicals.

The methane extracted from local gas fields provides energy for thousands of homes.

A byproduct of the digestive process in ruminants, released into the atmosphere during burping.

Cattle are known to produce large amounts of methane during digestion.

A flammable gas used in heating and cooking as a primary energy source in many households.

We use methane for cooking and heating in our kitchen appliances.

Methane can be formed anaerobically in landfills as waste decomposes over time.

The landfill emitted methane, which was captured and used to generate electricity.

Etymology

From methyl + -ane (a suffix used in organic chemistry).

Common Phrases and Expressions

methane hydrate

A solid form of water that contains trapped methane, typically found in ocean floor sediments.

methane emissions

The release of methane into the atmosphere, often from livestock, landfills, and natural gas production.

methane conversion

The process of changing methane into other forms of energy or products.

Related Words

alkane

A hydrocarbon with single bonds only, including methane.

greenhouse gas

Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, including methane.

fossil fuel

Natural fuels formed from the remains of living organisms, which can contain methane.

Slang Meanings

Fart gas

Dude, that burrito really gave me the methane!

Natural gas

We just switched our stove to run on methane for better efficiency.